The Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, has endorsed the death penalty for kidnappers and bandits, as proposed by his successor in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo.

Oshiomhole made the endorsement while addressing party supporters at the flag-off of the Edo North Senatorial District local government election campaign, held at the Public Field in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.

According to a statement by Patrick Ebojele, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, Oshiomhole praised the sanity restored by the Okpebholo administration.

“I stand here to completely endorse the declaration by the governor of Edo State that we are in a federation where every state has the right to enact laws on punishment when it comes to state offences. So kidnappers and bandits will be punished by death through firing squad,” he said.

Oshiomhole also praised Governor Okpebholo for reconstructing the over 200-year-old market in Jattu, describing it as an important part of the history and economic life of Edo North.

Oshiomhole said Jattu Market had remained a major trading centre where people from different communities gathered to exchange goods and services.

“As a child, I wove and sold baskets in this market. All the communities in Edo North come here on market days to trade in various commodities,” he said.

He said the reconstruction would preserve the market’s history while creating a safer and more convenient environment for traders.

“I want to correct critics who have questioned the cost of the project. If they calculate the volume of reinforced concrete used on each floor, they will understand that the project is worth the investment,” Oshiomhole added.

The reconstruction of Jattu Market is part of the Governor Okpebholo administration’s broader plan to modernise markets across Edo State. Other markets, including Oba Market and Ekpoma Modern Market, are also undergoing redevelopment with improved facilities aimed at providing safer and more efficient business environments for traders.